From Worst to First: Behind the Scenes of Continental's Remarkable Comeback

I worked with Continental CEO Gordon Bethune to tell the story of Continental's turnaround from the worst airline flying, despised by passengers, workers, and investors alike and facing the next in a string of bankruptcies, to the airline of the year. It's since been bought by United and you don't need me to tell you how that's worked out, but Gordon Bethune turned out to be the real deal, and writing with him was a treat; I've applied what I learned from him ever since. This is a management book, but like all how-to-do-something books, it's really a book of life lessons.

Here are some quotes from reviews:

“The numerous anecdotes alone are worth the price of the book.”-- The Washington Post Book World

“In an age where managing seems increasingly complicated, some of Bethune’s prescriptions are refreshingly straightforward.”-- Business Week

“An engaging yarn to anyone in business who might want to do better. From Worst to First also holds its own as a classic American success story.”-- Newark Star Ledger

“Often hilarious.”-- Fortune

“Unlike many management tomes, this one is worth reading.”-- Financial Times